Yumbulakang Palace

雍布拉康 · Heritage Building · Shannan

Yumbulakang sits on a ridge top and is regarded as the earliest palace building in Tibet, traditionally dated to the second century BCE. It is small but dramatically placed, with views over Yarlung valley farmland.

See stays
TypeHeritage Building
Altitude3,700 m (12,139 ft)
Visit lengthAbout 1.5 hours
Opening hours09:00–17:00 (varies by monastery)

Overview

Quick facts about Yumbulakang Palace

Quick answer

Yumbulakang sits on a ridge top and is regarded as the earliest palace building in Tibet, traditionally dated to the second century BCE. It is small but dramatically placed, with views over Yarlung valley farmland.

TypeHeritage Building
Altitude3,700 m (12,139 ft)
Visit lengthAbout 1.5 hours
Opening hours09:00–17:00 (varies by monastery)
Good to knowThe climb is short but steep at altitude; horses are offered at the base.

How to visit

Practical advice from our Lhasa team.

  • Walk slowly. Steep stairs at altitude are harder — come on your second or third day, not the day you arrive.
  • Taxi drop-off: Gate drop-off zone
  • Bus: City or county buses stop near the gate

Hotels near Yumbulakang Palace

Sorted by walking or driving distance when we have it; otherwise hotels we use in the same city.

Best time to visit

Average daily high and low in °C, and monthly rain in mm. Winter is cold and dry, with fewer visitors and lower hotel prices.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec24°-9°130 mm
Daily highDaily lowRain
BestGoodCold or limited access

Nearby

Questions

Yumbulakang Palace is at about 3,700 m (12,139 ft) above sea level. Plan a slow first day and drink plenty of water.
The better months are usually May, June, September, October.
Yes. All foreign visitors need a Tibet Travel Permit, and some areas need extra permits. We file them for you with every booking.
About 1.5 hours

Visiting Shannan?

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